On the theoretical side, I was concerned with stochastic resonance.

A brief visit to Nepal started my insatiable love for Asian art.

Thus, after finishing high school, I started with high expectations and enthusiasm to study chemistry at the famous Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich.

In recent years, more and more of my time has become absorbed by administrative work for the research council of ETH-Z of which I am presently the president.

I wanted to understand the secrets behind my chemical experiments and behind the processes in nature.

I am not surprised that they show no intention to follow in my footsteps, although if I had a second chance myself, I would certainly try to repeat my present career.

My father, Robert Ernst, was teaching as an architect at the technical high school of our city.